Uterine fibroids are benign growths of the uterus, often occurring during the reproductive age period. Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or fibroids, are not associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and are unlikely to develop into cancer. Below we will introduce the causes, basic symptoms, and hazards of uterine fibroids.
1、 The etiology of uterine fibroids
1. Age
Age is a key factor in the formation of uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are more common in women between the ages of 30 and 50 who have already given birth, and are less common under the age of 20.
2. Hormones
Estrogen is the main factor that promotes the growth of fibroids, and the higher incidence in women who have given birth is related to the high hormone environment during pregnancy. Estrogen and progesterone seem to promote the growth of uterine fibroids, and these two hormones stimulate endometrial development during each menstrual cycle to prepare for pregnancy. Compared to typical uterine muscle cells, uterine fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors. Due to reduced hormone secretion after menopause, fibroids often contract.
3. Obesity
Obesity may cause metabolic disorders, leading to a lack of periodic regulation of progesterone, which in turn can cause menstrual cycle abnormalities, affect ovulation, and increase the risk of uterine fibroids.
4. Excessive anxiety
Anxiety is a common problem among many women in the workplace. Intense work pace, excessive stress, family discord, emotional trauma, and poor mood can all cause ovarian dysfunction, leading to the occurrence of uterine fibroids. If excessive anxiety progresses to depression or even depression, it can lead to an increase in estrogen secretion, which is also one of the important causes of uterine fibroids.
5. Eating supplements indiscriminately
Some women often consume supplements containing estrogen like effects for beauty and skincare purposes, and long-term consumption may lead to excessive estrogen. The study found that the incidence rate of uterine fibroids in postmenopausal women who used hormone replacement therapy was significantly increased. There are various types of women's health supplements available on the market. It is recommended that women be vigilant when choosing health supplements and avoid high concentration hormone supplements.
2、 The basic symptoms of uterine fibroids
1. Vaginal bleeding
Vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom of uterine fibroids, mainly manifested as increased menstrual flow, prolonged menstruation, and sometimes irregular vaginal bleeding. Vaginal bleeding is most common in submucosal fibroids, followed by intramural fibroids, while subserosal fibroids generally do not cause vaginal bleeding.
2. Secondary anemia
Vaginal bleeding is the most common symptom in patients with uterine fibroids, and long-term excessive menstrual flow or irregular vaginal bleeding can cause varying degrees of hemorrhagic anemia, resulting in symptoms or signs such as dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations, and pale complexion.
3. Abdominal lump
When the fibroid is small, the lump cannot be felt in the abdomen. As the fibroid gradually enlarges and the uterus becomes larger than 3 months of pregnancy, it can be felt from the abdomen. It is more obvious in the morning when fasting and the bladder is full.
4. Increased vaginal discharge
When uterine fibroids increase the surface area of the endometrium, the secretion of endometrial glands increases, leading to symptoms of increased vaginal discharge in patients. When submucosal uterine fibroids become infected, a large amount of purulent discharge can be seen; If ulcers, bleeding, or necrosis occur, a large amount of bloody or purulent vaginal discharge with a foul odor can be produced.
5. Compression Symptoms
Due to limited space in the pelvic cavity, when uterine fibroids enlarge to a certain extent, they will compress surrounding organs, resulting in corresponding compression symptoms. When the myoma of the anterior wall of the uterus protrudes to the bladder and compresses the bladder, the patient may feel uncomfortable above the pubic symphysis, or have frequent urination or urgency, which may cause dysuria, urinary retention and other symptoms in serious cases.
3、 The hazards of uterine fibroids
1. Anemia
Uterine fibroids can lead to increased and prolonged menstrual periods, which can cause secondary anemia in the long run. In severe cases, symptoms such as pale complexion, general fatigue, palpitations, and shortness of breath may even occur, affecting the patient's physical health.
2. Infertility and miscarriage
Uterine fibroids can cause deformation of the uterine cavity and compression of the fallopian tube entrance by uterine fibroid tissue at the corner of the uterus, affecting the implantation of fertilized eggs and ultimately leading to infertility. Some even become pregnant and are prone to miscarriage.
3. Pain
Generally, uterine fibroids do not cause pain, but some patients may experience symptoms such as lower abdominal bloating, lower back pain, etc. In addition, red degeneration of uterine fibroids and torsion of subserosal uterine fibroids can cause acute abdominal pain.
Uterine fibroids are common benign gynecological tumors. Although the probability of malignant transformation is low, they can still pose some harm to women's physical health. We remind you to pay more attention to relevant medical science information, pay attention to your physical health, and seek medical attention promptly if you feel uncomfortable.